Keep your pet in good health by bringing them in for a routine exam from our vets at St. Michaels Companion Animal Hospital. We focus on preventive care and are passionate about educating pet owners.
The Importance of Preventive Care
Routine exams help your pet maintain excellent long-term physical health.
Paired with proper nutrition, vaccinations and parasite prevention, routine exams involve regular physical checkups from your vet. This allows your pet the best opportunity at excellent health throughout their lives.
When your pet visits us for their regularly scheduled checkup, we can prevent health issues from developing into larger problems, or detect them early when they are most treatable.
What to Expect During Your Pet's Physical
Your pet will receive a thorough physical examination to allow your vet to get a complete picture of his or her overall health. These elements will make up the exam:
General Condition
Did you know your vet can find clues to your pet's general health by assessing their physical condition and demeanour? From their level of alertness and weight in relation to size to how they stand and walk, there are a number of important indicators of overall health.
Coat & Skin
Your pet's coat and skin will be examined for signs of problems, including dryness or excessive oiliness, bumps, lumps, shedding, abnormal hair loss or dandruff.
Face & Head
The vet will inspect your pet's ears, eyes and nose for discharge or abnormalities. We'll also check the mouth for symptoms of oral health issues such as buildup of plaque or periodontal disease.
Internal Health
Blood pressure, pulse, heart rhythm and rate are all vitally important to the health of your pet's heart. These will be tested to ensure they are at normal levels. The vet will then examine the lungs for any evidence of abnormal breathing.
Lymph nodes will be assessed for any signs of swelling or pain, and the abdomen will be examined to make sure the stomach, spleen, liver, bladder, kidneys and intestines all feel normal, and that your pet is not displaying any signs of discomfort.
Puppies & Kittens
In the first few weeks after they're born, puppies and kittens need proper medical attention to ensure they have a healthy start.
Your new best friend will get a complete physical exam, deworming medication and appropriate immunization. They will also be tested for intestinal parasites. You will receive a kitten or puppy kit filled with samples and educational material to help you care for your newest four-legged family member.
Please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your pet's health or care, both during your appointments and following your visit.
Once your pet has had an initial appointment, you'll need to return periodically for his or her required booster shots.
Seniors
Recent advances in veterinary care and knowledge, in addition to newer therapies and better nutrition, have our senior pets living longer than ever.
As your pet enters their golden years, it becomes increasingly crucial for them to come to regular examinations to monitor their health. This gives your pet the best chance at a long life.
Along with routine wellness procedures for all adult pets, we provide special attention to your senior pet's potential age-related conditions, such as decreased vision or arthritis. More laboratory tests will also reveal information regarding your pet's overall health.
Vaccinations & Prevention
When your pet visits us for their physical exam, the vet will also confirm whether they need preventive care, or if they are due for any routine vaccinations.